Unleash your inner Bear Grylls by learning essential bushcraft and outdoor skills at these top UK survival courses.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast seeking to hone your skills or a novice looking to venture beyond the comforts of civilisation, survival courses offer a unique opportunity to learn essential bushcraft and outdoor skills. From fire-starting and shelter building to navigation and foraging, these courses will equip you with the practical knowledge and confidence to thrive in the great outdoors. In this article, we explore some of the top survival courses available in the UK, catering to a range of skill levels and interests.

1. Woodlore – Ray Mears Bushcraft & Wilderness Survival

Founded by renowned British bushcraft expert Ray Mears, Woodlore offers a range of survival courses that teach fundamental outdoor skills in various locations across the UK. Course options range from two-day introductions to week-long immersions, covering topics such as fire lighting, shelter building, water sourcing, and wilderness cooking. Woodlore's experienced instructors provide a hands-on learning experience, combining practical demonstrations with ample opportunity for participants to practice their newfound skills.

Website: https://www.raymears.com/

2. Bear Grylls Survival Academy

Inspired by the extreme adventures of British survivalist Bear Grylls, the Bear Grylls Survival Academy offers a variety of courses designed to challenge participants and teach essential survival skills. From 24-hour family courses to five-day adult-only adventures, participants will learn to navigate difficult terrain, build emergency shelters, and forage for food in the wild. The academy also offers bespoke and corporate team-building courses, combining survival skills with leadership and teamwork challenges.

Website: https://www.beargryllssurvivalacademy.com/

3. Wildway Bushcraft

Wildway Bushcraft, based in Dorset, focuses on teaching traditional bushcraft skills rooted in the natural environment. Courses range from one-day workshops to weekend adventures, covering essential skills such as fire lighting, foraging, and wood carving. The family-friendly 'Bushcraft for Families' course is a popular choice, offering a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike.

Website: https://www.wildwaybushcraft.co.uk/

4. Frontier Bushcraft

Frontier Bushcraft, led by experienced outdoorsman and author Paul Kirtley, offers a comprehensive range of survival courses suitable for beginners and experienced bushcraft practitioners. Course options include the foundational 'Elementary Wilderness Bushcraft' programme, the advanced 'Expedition Canoeing Skills' course, and the specialised 'Tree and Plant Identification' workshop. Frontier Bushcraft emphasises a combination of traditional skills and modern outdoor techniques, providing participants with a well-rounded skillset for wilderness survival.

Website: https://www.frontierbushcraft.com/

5. Backcountry Survival

Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland, Backcountry Survival specialises in teaching survival and bushcraft skills in a challenging and picturesque environment. Courses range from weekend 'Bushcraft Fundamentals' to the intensive 'Advanced Survival Week', covering a wide array of topics, including navigation, trapping, and wilderness first aid. Backcountry Survival also offers tailored courses for corporate groups and bespoke experiences for private parties.

Website: https://www.backcountrysurvival.co.uk/

Conclusion

Whether you're an experienced outdoor adventurer or a complete beginner, survival courses offer a unique and exciting opportunity to develop essential bushcraft and outdoor skills. With options available across the UK, there's never been a better time to unleash your inner explorer and embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning, and adventure. So, gather your courage, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the call of the wild by enrolling in one of these top UK survival courses. Not only will you gain invaluable knowledge and practical skills, but you'll also create lasting memories and forge a deeper connection with the natural world. Whether you choose a family-friendly weekend or an intense solo challenge, your adventure into the realm of bushcraft and wilderness survival awaits.